Mr Stylianou said: “Subject to the outcome of the surveys, we are optimistic the undamaged part of the pier will open to the public early in the final quarter of 2014.

“Further ahead we will work closely with the local authority and English Heritage on how we can best replace the destroyed parts of the pier.”

Mr Stylianou said it was heartbreaking to watch the fire destroy the arcade near the entrance to the Victorian pier, run by Cuerden Leisure Ltd.

He added: “It is only when you nearly lose something that you start to appreciate what it means to everyone. The people of Eastbourne have been unbelievable – the pulling together – true Dunkirk spirit.”

Traders, some of which did not have insurance, will have their rent waived until the end of the season and a discount offered on their 2015/16 fees.

The article mentioned they'll replace the decking, which I guess will be relatively straight forward. I imagine the pavillion will be boarded/fenced off and access will be around the outside. I guess they'll open one side so that they can work on the pavillion from the other, and then move access to the other side as work advances. I'm glad there seems to be a bit of momentum behind the idea of getting the pier up and running again so soon.

The article mentioned they'll replace the decking, which I guess will be relatively straight forward. I imagine the pavillion will be boarded/fenced off and access will be around the outside. I guess they'll open one side so that they can work on the pavillion from the other, and then move access to the other side as work advances. I'm glad there seems to be a bit of momentum behind the idea of getting the pier up and running again so soon.SimonS